Understanding Autoimmune Disorders

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is an umbrella term for multiple autoimmune conditions that cause inflammation in the digestive tract. Symptoms of IBD vary based on the severity of the inflammation and where the inflammation occurs; however, patients often experience abdominal pain, cramping and diarrhea. Although IBD shares many symptoms with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), the two conditions have separate causes and treatments. Standard treatment for IBD attempts to control symptoms by reducing inflammation through the use of anti-inflammatory medication. Talk with your doctor if you experience recurrent diarrhea and abdominal pain.